Crock pots (or slow cookers) have certainly experienced a resurgence, and we couldn’t be more delighted. They are a great option for busy cooks, reluctant cooks, or anyone who wants to simplify their cooking (and reduce their number of dishes!). Author Stephanie O'Dea, who vowed to use her slow cooker every single day for an entire year, has put together over 300 fabulous, easy-to-make, family-pleasing recipes. Her easy and inexpensive meals will make it seem like you spent hours at the stove.

What better way to warm up your winter than with a bowl of soup? This collection of delicious soup, stew, and stock recipes is one of our favorites because of its international scope. You’ll find soups as diverse as Indian Black Lentil, Jamaican Pumpkin Seed, and Crawfish Etoufée, as well as tried and true classics like Minestrone and French Onion. We also love that there are so many vegetarian and vegan recipes included.

Making vegetables the star of your meals is a nutritious and delicious idea—and the wonderful Mollie Katzen will show you how. Publishers Weekly says, “With Katzen's signature hand-lettered text and charmingly homey illustrations, [this book is] an inspiration to those who like meat with their vegetables, vegans and vegetarians alike.”